I’m hesitant to marry my boyfriend because of his low income

After graduating, I secured a position at a private school. I’m outgoing, cheerful, and presentable, traits that have made me quite popular among my colleagues. My boyfriend, 30, works in sales in Ho Chi Minh City. Although he’s somewhat short, his good looks, friendliness, and sociability are well noted. We have been in a relationship for nearly two years.

Prior to our relationship, my boyfriend had two or three other partners and was sexually active with them. While this initially upset me, I’ve come to accept it as normal in today’s society. Now, he is proposing marriage. Although I’ve only just started my career and wish to financially support my family first, I am aware of his desire to settle down. I am giving it serious thought and considering marriage by the end of next year.

One day, I mentioned to him that working in real estate sales requires constant travel and weekly visits to project sites. His basic salary is only a few million dong (VND1 million equals US$41), and he only earns substantial commissions when he closes a sale, which could boost his income to around VND20 million. I suggested that he pursue a more stable job, especially since a small salary would not suffice once we start a family.

He responded that as we are not married yet, he doesn’t have to worry about "making ends meet" and should focus on enjoying his job. I remained silent and dismissed the topic, but I felt disheartened by his perspective.

With his current earnings, he struggles to support even himself, and sometimes he fails to do so. Is it unreasonable for him to think this way?

I now avoid discussing marriage, concerned that financial issues might lead to conflicts after we wed. Am I being overly pragmatic and greedy in my expectations of my boyfriend?